April is National Volunteer Month Paying it forward by volunteering

April is National Volunteer Month

Paying it forward by volunteering

Lori Moore of Russell, Ky., believes in paying it forward.    After being treated for COVID in 2020 at the UK King’s Daughters Emergency Department, she was looking for a way to thank those who cared for her during that uncertain time. The answer was volunteering.

Since 2021, she’s spent Wednesdays helping patients and visitors get to their destinations in the hospital. Moore, 71, retired after serving 16 years as the secretary/treasurer of the Mansbach Foundation, a local charitable organization.

“I was so grateful for the care I received, and I knew the number of volunteers was down after the pandemic, so I thought I would pitch in,” Moore said. “I’ve been here ever since.”

Moore was introduced to the volunteer program by Sandy Thornbury, the King’s Daughters Auxiliary president at the time. They were acquaintances through the Ashland Area YMCA Silver Sneakers group and Thornbury hand-delivered Moore’s volunteer application.

“Once people start volunteering at King’s Daughters, they stay,” Moore said. “There are some really good people who are volunteers.”

She said being a volunteer has its perks – among them a free meal in the cafeteria, use of the Wellness Center, and an invitation to the annual recognition luncheon. But, more importantly, volunteering has kept her active and engaged with her community. During the construction of the main entrance addition, it was common for her to rack up 14,000+ steps in a four-hour shift.

“I went home tired, but happy that I was able to help people,” Moore said. “You really don’t know what people are going through until you talk with them.”

An Ashland native, Moore is extremely proud of the growth of King’s Daughters and the caliber of the providers.

“A patient from out of state told me she was so impressed,” Moore said. “She said people in larger cities don’t have the kindness or empathy that King’s Daughters employees have.”

Moore is hopeful the next generation will step up, noting there is always need in the Auxiliary Gift Shop and Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. Prior to volunteering, Moore didn’t realize the gift shop’s impact.

“It’s amazing the programs the Auxiliary supports through the proceeds,” Moore added. “It’s really opened my eyes – the patient needs and how they help them.”

Moore looks forward to her daughter Amy, and maybe even her grandchildren, following in her volunteering footsteps.

“People ask me about volunteering, and I always talk it up. It’s very fulfilling,” Moore said. “I always count my blessings that I’m able to do it.”

  Considering volunteering? There are openings in several areas. Volunteers must complete an application, a background check and receive medical clearance from a healthcare provider.

For more information, contactAmie Schwendeman, manager of Volunteer ServicesE-mail: amie.schwendeman@uky.eduCall: 606.408.0959